TIPS FOR EATING HEALTHY ON A BUDGET
Eating healthy on a tight budget can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. With some planning and smart shopping, you can eat a healthy and nutritious diet without breaking the bank. In this article, we will discuss some practical tips for eating well on a budget.
1. Plan your meals
Meal planning is key to eating healthy on a budget. Before you head to the grocery store, plan your meals for the week. Start by making a list of your favourite healthy recipes and decide which meals you want to make for the week. Our CMBT Strong Dashboard makes meal planning easy with over 350 recipes and foods to choose from. Planning your meals ahead of time can also help you avoid eating out or ordering takeout, which can be expensive.
2. Make a grocery list
Make a list of the foods you need before you go to the grocery store. If you’re using our CMBT Strong Dashboard, it will automatically generate a grocery list for you, based on the meals you’ve selected. Stick to your list and avoid impulse purchases. This will help you avoid buying unnecessary items at the store and reduce the likelihood of food waste.
3. Buy in bulk
Buying in bulk can be a great way to save money on healthy foods. Look for bulk packets of things that you know you’ll go through like meats, eggs, rice, potatoes, frozen fruits and vegetables. Freeze anything that you won’t use in time to avoid waste.
4. Shop seasonally
Buying fruits and vegetables that are in season is another way to save money. Seasonal produce is often cheaper and fresher than out-of-season produce. Visit your local farmer's market or check the weekly ads at your grocery store to see what's in season.
5. Shop smart
Stock up on items that you know you use on a regular basis when they are on special. You can also sign up for email newsletters from your favorite grocery stores to get alerts about sales and promotions. Buying generic or store brands can also be a great way to save money on groceries.
6. Cook in bulk
Cooking in bulk can save you time and money. Make big batches of recipes and portion them into individual meals. Keep 3 days worth in the fridge and freeze the rest. Alternatively, cook a big batch of proteins, rice/potato and veggies and use them throughout the week in different meals.
7. Limit meals out
Cooking at home is not only often healthier than eating out, but it can also save you money. Plan to cook most of your meals at home each week. Think of it as an opportunity to experiment with new healthy recipes and develop your cooking skills!
8. Make use of leftovers
Instead of throwing away leftovers, use them to create new meals. For example, leftover roasted chicken can be used to make chicken salad or used in a stir-fry with vegetables. This not only reduces food waste but also saves money by using ingredients you already have on hand.
Eating healthy on a budget does requires some planning and smart shopping, but it is possible. By following these tips, you can eat a healthy and nutritious diet without spending a lot of money! Remember, healthy eating is an investment in your health and well-being, and the benefits will more than pay off in the long run.
If you want to make eating healthy easier and achieve your health and fitness goals in the process, check out our CMBT Strong Dashboard!
